After helping Borussia Dortmund go to the semi-finals for the first time in more than ten years with a goal in the Champions League, Ian Maatsen delivered a not-so-subtle message to Chelsea.

A year ago, Maatsen was playing in the Championship with Burnley. He came to Chelsea with the belief that he would be given the chance to show his worth to the Blues this coming season.

Maatsen, who was sent to Dortmund on loan after being ignored by Mauricio Pochettino, has excelled in Germany and finished his “amazing” night by making it to the Champions League semi-final.

“You know what, it’s such an amazing feeling.” Maatsen disclosed to CBS.

Since I was a young child, I have always dreamed of this, especially when it comes to scoring my first Champions League goal. I’m beyond pleased to put it into words.

When Thierry Henry asked Maatsen if he ever thought he would be able to create great moments on the grandest platform after being rejected by Chelsea, he replied that he never lost confidence in himself.

He said, “I always thought [I could] play for Chelsea, but sadly it didn’t work out.”

Now that I’m here, I sincerely appreciate the chance. I’m rather pleased with myself. I came here to play my game to the best of my ability because I never gave up on myself. In my opinion, I performed admirably today.

For the first time since 2012–13, Dortmund advanced to the final four as they defeated an experienced Atletico Madrid team, with Maatsen scoring the second of their four goals on the evening.

After some deft build-up play, the left back scored a rocket, low into the far corner. Although it took Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak off guard, it was no аccident.

“I’ve been practicing in training, and these opportunities don’t come often for full-backs,” he remarked.

I saw the goal after getting a nice touch in the box, so I just threw the ball as hard as I could into the goal. It paid off today.

Dortmund looked just as energized at the final whistle as they were at the start in front of an 81,000-strong crowd, and Maatsen attributed that to their renowned Yellow Wall.

This Wall of Yellow is crаzy. You are buzzing with the enthusiasm that the fans are putting forth. It is so deeply felt in your heart. It permeates every cell in your body. Great fans. It’s beyond description.